MANICA DIAMONDS. . (0) 1
ZPC KARIBA. . . . . . . . . .( 0)0
VETERAN striker Evans Katema sealed victory for Manica Diamonds FC with a decisive penalty in the 84th minute, leading his team to a 1-0 win against visiting ZPC Kariba in the Castle Lager Premier League encounter at Sakubva Stadium
yesterday.
Katema, who came off the bench in the second half, converted from the spot after speedy forward Fortune Bhinzi was brought down by ZPC Kariba's Collin Muleya.
The penalty kick sent ZPC Kariba's goalkeeper Tatenda Munditi the wrong way, sending the home fans into a
frenzy.
The match began with Manica Diamonds on the offensive, displaying its intent to score early.
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Just two minutes in, midfielder Bret Amidu missed a golden opportunity to put the hosts ahead.
Throughout the first half, Manica Diamonds created a flurry of chances but struggled to find the back of the net.
Players like Lawrence Masibera, Anelka Chivandire and Bhinzi were active but unable to convert their efforts.
One of the standout moments of the first half came in the 32nd minute when winger Charles Teguru failed to capitalise on a clear chance, sending his shot over the bar.
As the half drew to a close, Masibera set up an open goal for Amidu, only for the midfielder to miss from close range, leaving the home side frustrated.
ZPC Kariba's defence, marshalled by veteran defenders Boyd Mutakura and Muleya, held firm against the onslaught from Manica Diamonds, effectively neutralising their attacking threats.
There was a ramp up of intensity in the second half.
The match remained evenly poised, with both sides searching for a breakthrough.
In a critical moment in the 78th minute, Manica Diamonds goalkeeper Tedius Baye made a crucial save from a counterattack led by Munashe Kamwala, keeping the match scoreless until the late drama unfolded.
With the victory, Manica Diamonds FC continue to build momentum in the league, while ZPC Kariba will look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.
Meanwhile Caps United recorded their first win of the season after beating Triangle United 2-0 at GreenFuel Arena in Chisumbanje.
The Green Machine needed a first-half brace from Juan Mutudza to claim a commanding win over the hosts.
